Calvin Stephen James, 74, of Cedar Hill, TX passed away surrounded by his loving daughters on May, 27, 2026. Calvin was born in Dallas, TX on January 5, 1952 to Calvin Rex James Jr and Nancy Ellen Repass James.

Calvin moved to Cedar Hill at the age of 10 and remained there until his passing. Calvin was described as one of the best prayer warriors in God's army even up until his death. Calvin was also a natural protector which made his dream of being a police officer a perfect match. Calvin achieved his goal of becoming a police officer in 1976 with Dallas County Sherriff's Office. He then served with Cedar Hill Police Department as a reserve officer for 24 years after honorably retiring in 2003. Calvin then went on to serve with Cedar Hill ISD PD, Ellis County SO Pct 5, DCCD PD, and Dallas County Constable Pct 4. Calvin was given the nickname of "Big Tex" because of his deep and booming voice during his time at DCCD PD. Each agency Calvin served held a special place in his heart. Calvin also worked "regular jobs" such as Abbott Labs, Circuit City Service Center, and DAAPS patrol as an armed security guard. Calvin officially retired to take on the job of full-time grandpa to his 3 young grandchildren. Calvin will be remembered for his deep faith, love of family, and commitment to service. Service before self was not just a saying for Calvin, it was the way he lived his life. Calvin was a life-long member of the First United Methodist Church in Cedar Hill and served as a volunteer security guard to protect the congregation during service.

Calvin's life changed in 1981 when he met the love of his life in the drive thru of Cedar Hill Dairy Queen. Calvin and Carolyn married on August 4, 1984 in a ceremony that was still the talk of the town decades later. The immense love for Carolyn was evident even after 45 years together. Calvin would gain the coveted title of "Daddy" in 1986 (Tracy) and again in 1990 (Whitney) when the other 2 loves of his life entered the mix. Even with all the challenges of the last 6 months of his life, Calvin continued to be a strong man of faith and a fighter to the very end. Calvin was a constant servant whether it was his family, community or God, he wouldn't hesitate to answer the call.

Calvin is preceded in death by his parents and youngest sibling Paul. Calvin is survived by his loving wife Carolyn, daughter Tracy (and Wesley), daughter Whitney (and Will), and grandchildren Catherine (Peanut), Stephen, and Kyleigh. Calvin is also survived by his sisters Marion Witt, Jean Kingery, brother Matt James, and sister-in-law Pat James. As well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 11th at 10am at First United Methodist Church in Cedar Hill located at 128 N Roberts Rd in Cedar Hill.